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Early Parenthood with Arthritis: Understanding How Mental Health is Affected and Identifying Support Needs

The Problem

Becoming a parent can be challenging for anyone, but parents living with autoimmune rheumatic diseases experience increased physical and emotional pressures. Pain, fatigue, and fluctuating symptoms often impact mental health and make navigating parenthood, an already demanding life stage, even harder.

 

The Research

To better support parents with autoimmune rheumatic diseases, we need to better understand what they need. This study is aiming to learn more about the mental health, parenting experiences, and support needs of parents with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Participation in this study involves completing an online survey, and a small group will also be invited to take part in optional virtual or telephone interviews to share more detailed experiences.

The Impact

This study will help us build a stronger understanding of the challenges parents with autoimmune rheumatic diseases face during the transition to parenthood. The goal is to guide the development of better supports and resources for parents and families.

Research Study

This study is exploring how living with an autoimmune rheumatic disease affects the mental health and parenting experiences of new parents. Using surveys and interviews, the study aims to understand what supports parents need and improve care during this important transition period.

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Research Scientist

Dr. Deborah Da Costa -

Deborah Da Costa

Research Scientist, Psychology, PhD

Deborah Da Costa is a scientist at the Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre and an associate professor in the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine at McGill University. Her research focuses on the interplay between modifiable psychosocial and behavioural (e.g. exercise) factors and health status in various chronic illnesses and in relation to depression in populations at risk. This has laid the foundation for the knowledge-transfer phase of her program which focuses on tailoring and evaluating evidence-based e-health interventions to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to optimize their health and wellness.

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